Learn How to Construct a Bioswale

At the Lost Coast Education Center and Garden, next to the BLM King Range fire facility, 768 Shelter Cove Road in Whitethorn.

The workshop will cover the theory, design and hands-on construction of a bioswale (also known as a berm and basin) to help capture and infiltrate runoff into the soil. Participants will learn how, where (and where not to) construct a bioswale, their uses for groundwater recharge, as well as their use in capturing nutrients and sediment.

The day of the workshop a small bioswale will be constructed and planted with native perennial bunch grasses. Participants will also receive a basic written guide on how to build a bioswale.

I have some experience with these. Five years ago I read all the hype and watched the videos and thought these were pure magic and I wanted some of it. In the end, they’re only good as a glorified curtain drain. Sure, I had lots of fun and excitement building them, using an A frame, planting plants and watching the swales fill with rain. My desert land got no greener but I did learn some things, got good exercise and now have a curtain drain.

Bioswales infiltrate runoff, therefore help recharge the natural aquifer. They are meant to attenuate stormwater flows and prevent runoff of polluted or sediment laden water. You’ve done a good thing by constructing them on your land.